The first is baptism (sometimes called a christening). A baptism is a service where the parents and godparents (also called sponsors) make a Christian commitment on behalf of the child and the child is welcomed by the church community as a member of the worldwide church.

This service normally takes place during the normal 8.00 am service on a Sunday morning. This is because baptism is about belonging to the church family and it is appropriate for the church family to be present to welcome the child. On occasion the baptism service can take place after the Sunday service at 10 am.

The second service is a thanksgiving service.  This is not a baptism and takes place in the Lady Chapel of St Paul’s at 10 am on a Sunday. This service can be adapted and written to fit your own family.

As your children grow, we are committed to including them in the worshipping life of St Paul’s.

Many people have not been baptised as children and, in adulthood, would like to make this commitment. We would be delighted to explore this possibility with you. Come along to a service on a Sunday and then make contact with one of the clergy.